Top SD Cards for Nintendo Switch: 2025 Guide

If you're a Nintendo Switch owner, you've likely noticed that the internal storage can fill up quickly. The standard Switch comes with just 32GB of storage, while the upgraded Switch OLED model offers 64GB. Given that many of the best Switch games require an average of at least 10GB, if not more, it's easy to run out of space, especially if you're an avid eShop user. That's why investing in a microSDXC card, such as the SanDisk 512GB Extreme, is crucial for expanding your storage and enjoying a seamless gaming experience.

By inserting an SD card into your Switch, you can download and store numerous games without the hassle of deleting older ones to make room. SD cards are available in various capacities, with options reaching up to 1TB, allowing you to keep a vast library at your fingertips. Remember, though, that game save data remains stored in the console's system memory by default. With the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 promising backward compatibility, upgrading your storage now is a smart move.

TL;DR - These are the Best SD Cards for Switch:

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5See it at Amazon### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2See it at Amazon### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1See it at Amazon### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1See it at AmazonSD cards vary in size, speed, and price, but for the best gaming experience on your Switch, opt for one with UHS-I compatibility and higher transfer speeds. These features ensure smoother gameplay and faster loading times.

If you’re searching for the perfect SD card for your Nintendo Switch, you're in the right place. We've selected top-notch SD cards that integrate seamlessly with your Switch, whether you're looking to store multiple games, save video clips, or transfer data to other devices.

Best SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Our Top Pick### SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card

5The SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card strikes the perfect balance between speed and storage. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 190MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSFast 190MB/s read speeds ReliableCONSNo warranty listedSanDisk, a trusted brand, ensures reliability and durability with the SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card. Available in various storage options, it maximizes your Nintendo Switch’s storage, allowing you to install numerous games, save files, and screenshots without the need to delete existing content. The 512GB version offers excellent value, but for those needing even more space, a 1TB option is available.

If you decide to upgrade to a different SD card in the future, this card comes with an adapter, making it compatible with other devices. The SanDisk 512GB Extreme microSDXC Card boasts impressive data transfer speeds of up to 190MB/s, enabling quick game downloads and transfers.

Its durable design is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray-proof, providing peace of mind when traveling with your Nintendo Switch and ensuring your game files remain safe.

2. Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

Best Budget SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### Samsung EVO Select A2 512GB microSDXC Card

2Offering great value, the Samsung EVO Select A2 SD card meets the minimum requirements for the Switch with slightly slower transfer speeds. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity512GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 130MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSWide range of sizesDurableCONSSlower speedsFor those on a budget but still seeking a capable microSD card, the Samsung EVO Select A2 is an excellent option. Priced around $40, it features a UHS-I interface and an A2 rating for enhanced performance. While its transfer speeds are slower than some premium cards, the Switch caps speeds at around 95MB/s, meaning there's minimal impact on game load times.

With 512GB of storage, the Samsung EVO Select A2 provides ample space for a large gaming library, gameplay clips, and more. For users needing even more storage, a 1TB version is available, along with smaller 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options to meet various needs.

This card is built to last, with waterproofing to protect against accidental splashes, and resistance to extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnets. Its ability to withstand drops over 16 feet ensures your game data remains secure, far exceeding the durability of the Switch itself.

3. SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

Best High Capacity SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB Ultra A1 microSDXC Card

2With a massive 1TB capacity, the SanDisk Ultra A1 SD Card is ideal for the Nintendo Switch, offering space for over 75 titles. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 150MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSHigh capacityFast downloadsCONSPriceyThe SanDisk Ultra A1 SD card, with its 1TB capacity, is perfect for the Nintendo Switch. It supports transfer speeds up to 150MB/s, ensuring swift downloads. With this much storage, you can comfortably install over 75 games, as most Switch games are under 15GB. Even the larger games, which range between 30GB and 60GB, are few and far between.

Any additional space on this SD card is perfect for storing numerous screenshots and video captures, enhancing your overall gaming experience.

4. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

Best High Speed SD Card for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card

1The SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card features QuickFlow Technology for optimized file performance, enhancing load times. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity256GB Transfer SpeedsUp to 200MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSSanDisk QuickFlow Technology optimizes filesTop transfer speedsCONSSmaller storage spaceIf you're in need of a high-speed SD card for your Switch, the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD card is an excellent choice. It utilizes SanDisk QuickFlow Technology to optimize files for superior performance, significantly reducing game load and download times.

With 256GB of storage, you can maintain a substantial game library on your system. Although the Switch doesn't support 4K, this card's high transfer speeds are perfect for quickly transferring 1080p screenshots and videos to other devices.

5. SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

Best SD Card Design for Nintendo Switch

### SanDisk 1TB microSDXC Card - The Legend of Zelda

1This Zelda-themed SD card offers a unique design, ample storage, and respectable speeds. See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsStorage Capacity1TB Transfer SpeedsUp to 100MB/sIncludes Adapter?YesPROSUnique designOfficially licensed by Nintendo CONSSlower speeds than other cardsThe Zelda-themed SD card stands out with its iconic Triforce design, making it the perfect choice for fans of the Nintendo franchise. With 1TB of storage, you won't have to worry about running out of space for new games. While its speeds are slightly lower than other options on this list, it's the only card here officially licensed by Nintendo.

Designed with the Nintendo Switch in mind, this card ensures a high-quality product. Its unique design featuring the Triforce symbol from The Legend of Zelda series adds a personal touch to your gaming setup. Though there may be faster options available, this card is ideal for those who value aesthetics alongside functionality.

How To Choose an SD Card for Nintendo Switch

Choosing the right SD card for your Nintendo Switch can transform your gaming experience. Here are some key factors to consider:

Storage capacity is your first priority. Depending on your gaming habits, a 128GB card might suffice, but larger games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which take up 16GB, may require more space. Don't forget to account for save files and screenshots, which can quickly add to the total storage needed.

Ensure the SD card is compatible with your Switch. The console supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, but not SD or miniSD cards.

Transfer speed is another crucial aspect. Higher speeds enhance your gaming experience. Speed classes are graded from 2 to 10, indicating the minimum speed. Look for cards with a UHS (Ultra High Speed) class like UHS-1 for optimal performance.

Nintendo Switch SD Card FAQs

Do you need an SD card for the Switch?

Yes, a microSD card is essential for maximizing the storage capacity of your Nintendo Switch. Without it, you're limited to installing only a few games on the system. An SD card allows you to store dozens of titles without the need to delete games to free up space.

Nintendo's first-party games are typically smaller, but many third-party titles exceed 32GB, which is the internal storage capacity of the standard Switch and Switch Lite models, making an SD card necessary for those games.

How much storage do you actually need?

For most users, an SD card with 256GB or more should be sufficient. Even some of the largest Nintendo titles, such as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Xenoblade Chronicles 3, require only 16GB and 14GB, respectively. If you mainly play Nintendo-developed games, a 256GB card will serve you well.

However, if you enjoy larger third-party releases like Mortal Kombat 1, consider an SD card with at least 512GB. Games like the latest NBA 2K can take up over 60GB, which can quickly consume storage space. Ultimately, the ideal SD card size depends on your gaming preferences, but having one is essential for any Nintendo Switch owner.

Will Switch SD cards be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2?

With the confirmation of backward compatibility for the Nintendo Switch 2, it's safe to assume that SD cards used with the current Switch will also be compatible with the new console. Handheld gaming devices generally use similar SD card specifications, so there shouldn't be any unique requirements for the Switch 2. For future-proofing, consider purchasing a 1TB or larger SD card to ensure you have ample storage for the next generation of games.